What is a Physician Assistant?

Physician assistants are the backbone of the healthcare system. From conducting physical exams and interpreting diagnostic studies to developing treatment plans and writing prescriptions, physician assistants (also known as PAs) assume many responsibilities to ensure that their patients receive the best individualized care possible. When you graduate from the PA program at the University of Maryland Eastern Shore, you’ll be prepared to provide a quality healthcare experience to every one of your future patients.

If you’re like many prospective students, you might be wondering, “What is a physician assistant?” Simply put, PAs are highly trained healthcare professionals who are licensed to provide medical care services in collaboration with a Doctor of Medicine (MD) or a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO). According to the ARC-PA, “Within the collaborative medical team, PAs are medical professionals who diagnose illness, develop and manage treatment plans, prescribe medications, and often serve as a patient’s principal healthcare provider. PAs work in every state, medical setting, and specialty, improving healthcare access and quality.” Joining the Physician Assistant program at UMES will prepare you to practice “primary and specialty care in medical and surgical settings;” clinical research, and academia. Learn from highly esteemed PA program faculty mentors who are committed to promoting health and wellness through their teaching and research. You’ll take engaging courses and participate in meaningful clinical rotations that will provide real-world work experience to prepare you for the daily rewards and challenges of healthcare in the twenty-first century.